If you’re considering moving to the Philippines, now is the perfect time to do it! With the Cost Of Living In The Philippines ranging from $605 per Month in the rural areas to $2000 per Month in the Philippines metropolitan areas living on a luxury budget, there’s sure to be a budget that accommodates your needs.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most significant expenses you’ll need to consider when living in the Philippines, as well as provide the monthly cost of living estimates for different areas of the Philippines and how to live in the Philippines on a budget!
We’ve been digital nomads for almost 4.5 years and have been traveling the globe since then, so we’ll share our experiences with you! Ready to begin your dream destination to live for a few months in the Philippines? Let’s do it!

Table of Contents
Why Should You Move to The Philippines?
The cost of living is low compared to other developed countries, and you will have access to some of the most iconic landmarks and beaches in the world without spending a fortune on travel expenses.
With the economy expanding, more and more people are moving to the country every day. This post will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about living in the Philippines.
According to recent reports, the average person in the Philippines earns around PHP 58,000 per Month. This is a significant increase from previous years, as the average income was around PHP 46,000 in 2017.
Living in The Philippines is a dream that’s possible, and the affordable Cost Of Living In the Philippines makes it possible!
- The Philippines is truly an incredible tropical paradise that is 3 times cheaper than living in New York City, as I show you in the video above!
- The Philippines has incredible weather, fantastic scenery, an incredible Filipino culture, spectacular views, and destinations.
- The affordable cost of living In the Philippines, With a monthly income from $600 to $2000, it is possible to live for even as low as $600, which we will discuss later in this article, but we don’t recommend that because it is stressful. The monthly food budget, housing expenses, and transportation options in the Philippines are determined by your budget and spending habits, depending on how much you spend.
Cost Of Living in The Philippines Quick Facts:

The Philippines has world-class weather, some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, World class islands, nature, Jungles, incredible mountains, wildlife, incredible adventures to make, world class waterfalls and incredibly diverse unique cultures around the country, and a thriving digital nomad, expat community.
- Here’s a breakdown of some key expenses: Total Monthly Living Costs in The Philippines Is $600 to $2000 Per Month For all expenses, and if you budget smartly, you can expect to spend $1000 to $1400 per month for all expenses.
- The Philippines is 8 times cheaper than New York City, United States.
- The Philippines has incredible countryside, jungles, Mountains, Surfing, safaris, beaches, and more. You can find anything and incredible things to do in The Philippines.
- With a monthly income of less than $1500 is possible to live well, and sometimes even as low as $600 per month if you are on a tight, extreme budget, which we will discuss later in this article. The monthly rent in The Philippines, food budget, housing expenses, and transportation options in The Philippines are determined by your budget and spending habits, depending on how much you spend.
- You would need around 2,000$ (110,980.00 PHP) in The Philippines to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with 9,500.00$ in New York, NY.
- On average, the cost of living in The Philippines is 81% lower than in the United States.
- on average, Rent In The Philippines is 81% less than in New York City, New York.
- The range of costs is from $600 to $2000 + per month, depending on your budget and your spending habits.
- A budget food and grocery plan will cost you around $200 to $400 per month, although this will vary depending on your location and budget.
- A family of four estimated monthly costs is $2000.
- A single person estimated monthly costs are $800 to $1500.
- Transportation costs expect to spend an estimated $100 to $200 each month on transportation.
- The average monthly cost of living in The Philippines is $300 For the Local Natives. Expats and Digital Nomads will spend more to keep up with their living standards of around $1000 to $1500 per month while Living in The Philippines.
- The Philippines has amazing local food that you should try, which is another tip to save money. While living in The Philippines, try to eat at the local markets and local supermarkets. You will save a lot of money doing this.
Our Personal Costs of Living in The Philippines: Table of expenses Breakdown 2023
This Is a table of expenses of what we spent living as digital nomads each month in The Philippines. Sometimes, we spent less or more depending on the month.
Our Average Monthly Costs In The Philippines went as follows:
- Rent and accommodation in The Philippines, $320 a month for a studio apartment condo near the local food markets and gyms, saved us even more on food and transportation.
- Food and Groceries Cost in The Philippines was $200 – $400 per month. We always ate the local food and street food and did weekly grocery shopping at the local supermarkets to save money.
- Monthly Utilities in The Philippines were around $100 a month for electricity, water, wifi, and phone data combined.
- Gym: We trained at a MMA, Muay Thai, and jiujitsu gym and worked out at a local weightlifting gym. Altogether the cost was $80 per month.
- The cost of Transportation was around $100 to $200 per month between renting a scooter and grab.
- Activities and things to do in The Philippines were around $80 to $150 per month.
- Total Monthly cost of living in the Philippines cost us $920 to $1,400 per month (PHP 51,044.82 – PHP 77,676.90)
Here is a table of Expenses for what we personally spent in The Philippines:
Our Personal Average Monthly Expenses In The Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Our Rent and Accommodation in The Philippines Per Month | $320 | PHP 17,600 |
Our monthly Utilities in The Philippines such as water, electricity, Wifi, Mobile phone | $100 | PHP 5,500 |
Our Monthly Gym and MMA, Jiu Jitsu, and Muay Thai expenses in The Philippines | $80 | PHP 4,400 |
Our Monthly Cost of Food and Groceries expenses In The Philippines | $200 – $400 | PHP 11,000 – PHP 22,000 |
Our Monthly Transportation Costs in The Philippines | $100- $200 | PHP 5,500 – PHP 11,000 |
Our Monthly Activities and Things to do in The Philippines expenses | $80 – $150 | PHP 4,400 – PHP 8,250 |
Monthly Health Insurance (SafetyWing, World Nomads) In The Philippines | $40 – $150 | PHP 2,200 – PHP 8,250 |
Our personal Cost of Living In The Philippines Per Month Total Expenses | $920 to $1,400 | PHP 50,600 – PHP 77,000 |
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in The Philippines Summary Cost Of Rent, Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare: $600 to $2000 Per Month (PHP 33,287.40 – PHP 110,959.00)

You can live in the Philippines for around $600 a month for all expenses on a tight budget or $2000 a month if you live more on the luxurious side. (PHP 33,287.40 – PHP 110,959.00)
Regardless, you can still maintain a low monthly budget and enjoy all the beautiful things the Philippines offers.
As of 2023, the most expensive city to live in is Manila, while Cebu City and the smaller towns are the cheapest.
Research the different cities in the Philippines before deciding to move there.
This will help you identify which city has the best budget for you.
An ideal monthly budget for a single person living in the Philippines is around $1,100 to $2000 a month. You can do it for cheaper, but we don’t recommend that.
There are many ways to save money, such as eating inexpensively (which we will discuss later) and using public transportation.
The costs of living in The Philippines Depending on various factors and spending habits, the price may change. Others spend $3000 or more each Month for an extravagant, next-level lifestyle. $600 per Month on a strict budget, ensuring they make it work no matter what!
- Expect to spend $600 to $2000 per Month for a single person or a family living in The Philippines. $1000 per Month is sufficient to live on, but you’ll have to make sacrifices if you choose this option. Renting and food costs will be cut in half if you split the money with families, friends, and couples.
- Going to a touristy food place and spending $30 to $100+ on a simple plate of food is not a good idea and not good if you are trying to budget.
- Plus, you save money when you eat at the local Filipino markets, food trucks, or local restaurants will cost you $.50 to $5 for a huge meal that will provide better nutrition and save you more than a touristy food place.
- However, the costs skyrocket if you want to eat at tourist restaurants or beach clubs.
- The most cost-effective and knowledgeable ways to shop and eat are in local Filipino markets, food shops, and supermarkets. Since most of the food and produce comes from local farms, islands, villages, and the sea, you’re getting the finest cuisine available and helping to support the local economy. You will find everything you need from the local markets.
Here is a table of expenses for a couple living in The Philippines per month:
Average Monthly Expenses In The Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Rent (Homestay, Guesthouse, studio vs Full Private 2+ Bedroom Villa) In The Philippines | $140 – $1200 | PHP 7,700 – PHP 66,000 |
Electricity (Including water) In The Philippines | $50 – $150 | PHP 2,750 – PHP 8,250 |
Mobile Phone (including SIM Card data) In The Philippines | $20 – $50 | PHP 1,100 – PHP 2,750 |
Internet (WiFi) in The Philippines | $20 – $50 | PHP 1,100 – PHP 2,750 |
Food (groceries, dining out, partying, nightlife) in The Philippines | $200 – $500 | PHP 11,000 – PHP 27,500 |
Transportation (motorbike, fuel, renting, Taxi) In The Philippines | $100 – $200 | PHP 5,500 – PHP 11,000 |
Healthy Activities (Gym, MMA, Yoga, Massages, etc) In The Philippines | $30 – $100 | PHP 1,650 – PHP 5,500 |
Health Insurance (SafetyWing, World Nomads) In The Philippines | $40 – $150 | PHP 2,200 – PHP 8,250 |
Cost of Living In The Philippines Per Month Total Expenses | $600 – $2400 | PHP 33,000 – PHP 132,000 |
Cost of Living in The Philippines: Table of Expenses in 2023
Planning a trip to the Philippines? This table of expenses will help you stay within your budget.
The Cost of living table below An extensive poll of Digital Nomads, Expats, travelers, and Numbeo users was used to put this together.
$1 USD equals 58.17 Philippine pesos as of the posting of this article. This estimate is based on a Strict Budget Vs. A luxury Budget in The Philippines per Month! The Cost Of Living Per Month In The Philippines is $600- $2000 or more, depending on your spending habits!
Here is the Table of the monthly budget for two people living in the Philippines:
Cost of living in the Philippines per person | USD | Philippine Peso Php |
---|---|---|
Single person | $600 – $1,120 | ₱64,554.56 (PHP) |
Couple | $1,000 – $1,500 | ₱88,320 (PHP) |
Family of four | $1700 – $2,300 or more | ₱135,424 (PHP) |
Average Monthly Expense type In Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Average monthly rent for a studio in The Philippines | $272 | PHP 15,000 |
Average monthly cost for Food and groceries in The Philippines | $218 | PHP 12,000 |
Average monthly cost for dining out in The Philippines | $72 | PHP 4,000 |
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous items in The Philippines | $55 | PHP 3,000 |
Average monthly cost for utilities in The Philippines | $45 | PHP 2,500 |
Average monthly cost for transportation in The Philippines | $72 | PHP 4,000 |
Total average monthly cost of living in The Philippines | $736 | PHP 21,500 |
Cost of Rent In The Philippines In-Depth Summary

Some popular areas to rent in the Philippines include Makati City and Quezon City. Remember that rent in these areas can be expensive, so be prepared to budget accordingly. It’s also important to know that there are various types of apartments to choose from – condo units, family homes, and townhouses.
Be sure to research locally or on Airbnb or expat and digital nomad Facebook groups that can help you find the perfect place to call home.
Renting an apartment monthly, either in person or from Airbnb, will be your best option if you’re looking for a place in The Philippines. On average, apartments in The Philippines cost $150 to $2000 per Month on Airbnb and maybe cheaper if you search locally, but you will have to pay an upfront deposit, so if you go through Airbnb, you don’t have to pay a deposit, so this is why I choose Airbnb.
Renting a home with two or more rooms will cost you around $2200 per Month if you’re looking for something more spacious and want to live on the Island without spending too much.
- You’ll have to choose between renting a studio, flat, or villa, sharing the rent, or living alone.
- To save money and you should eat food locally, look for an apartment in the surrounding areas close to local markets and restaurants. This is a fantastic tip that I use all the time.
- Hotel websites offer the Philippine’s most costly vacation rentals for approximately $100 per night. This is the wrong decision. This is the situation that most individuals fall into because they need help understanding they can live cheaply and for better value. You should be Renting an Airbnb for three days, visiting various places until you find the one that suits you best to live monthly, and talking with digital nomads and expats are all excellent strategies to determine where to stay. Everyone has someone they can turn to for help. The majority of people choose monthly rentals to save money.
- Digital Nomads in the Philippines, Digital Nomads in The Philippines, and Expats in The Philippines are just a few of the Facebook groups available. For you, Facebook groups are a fantastic resource! It might be an excellent place to start. Westerners are in charge of these flats. You’re more likely to save money by going directly to the source or using Airbnb.
- There are lodges, Homestays, Airbnb, Guesthouses, and Bed and breakfasts In The Philippines for affordable rates. Never fall for the hotel nightly option and expensive touristic locations.
Rent in the Philippines
Deciding where to live in the Philippines can be a daunting task. It’s important to factor in the monthly cost of living as this will help you calculate your budget accurately. With so many different neighborhoods and islands to choose from, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. One excellent option is to rent in Manila, known for its high population density and all it offers, or go for an island.
For example, you can find great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife at your fingertips.
You can find some pretty incredible and beautiful places for around $300-$500 a month, including a lovely outdoor pool and a gym.
For example, a spacious condo in Lapu-Lapu with 3 beds, high-speed internet, a pool, and a kitchen will cost you $432 a month!

If you want to experience a more luxurious stay in the Philippines, you’re considering spending around $600 on rent.
$600 can get a penthouse in Manila with a huge pool and incredible views overlooking the city.

Rent in the Philippines Vs USA
There’s no doubt that rent in the Philippines is much lower than rent in the US. Around $150 to $600 monthly for a beautiful apartment in the Philippines vs. $3000 + monthly in New York City for a simple studio. This makes it an affordable option for anyone looking to relocate or start a new career.
When selecting a property, be sure to take into account the location and amenities as well as the rent. Be sure to research different properties to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Monthly Rent in The Philippines: Table of Expenses in 2023
It’s time to start budgeting for the year 2023! This article will provide a detailed overview of the best way to keep your monthly budget low – living in a developing country like the Philippines.
According to a study by The Economist, the best place to live on a monthly budget is the Philippines. In 2023, the average rent for an apartment will be PHP 26,000 or $456 USD.
This amount includes utilities (electricity, water, and gas), transportation costs (car or motorcycle rental, tolls), food expenses (groceries, restaurants), and other miscellaneous expenses (phone bill, taxes). To ensure you’re prepared for all the costs that may come your way, Table of Expenses provides a comprehensive overview of all the necessary costs you’ll face each Month in. So go ahead and start budgeting now!
Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of rent and Accommodation in The Philippines per month:
Cost of Rent in the Philippines | $USD | PHP Philippine Peso |
---|---|---|
Studio Apartment in the Philippines | $150 – $500 | 8,250 PHP – 27,500 PHP |
2+ Bedroom Apartment in the Philippines | $300 – $1000 | 16,500 PHP – 55,000 PHP |
Insane Luxury Apartment in the Philippines | $800 – $2000 + | 46,540.00 PHP – 116,350.00 PHP |
Average Monthly Rent Expense in The Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Average monthly rent for a studio in The Philippines | $127 | PHP 7,000 |
Average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in The Philippines | $163 | PHP 9,000 |
Average monthly rent for a 2-bedroom in The Philippines | $218 | PHP 12,000 |
Average monthly rent for a 3-bedroom in The Philippines | $272 | PHP 15,000 |
Best Flights To The Philippines Tips
The Philippines is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. It’s also a great place to live on a budget. If you’re looking to relocate to the Philippines, here are some tips to help you save money on your monthly expenses:
Remember transportation costs – renting a car or using public transportation can be cheaper than flying. – Use the internet to find the best flight prices and book your trip as soon as possible!
When visiting the Philippines, avoid high tourist areas and stick to less populated areas where you’ll have more fun and save money simultaneously!
Flights To the Philippines (Manila-main city capital) | USD |
---|---|
New York to Philippines | $490 |
Los Angeles to Philippines | $570 |
London to Philippines | $395 |
Bangkok to Philippines | $129 |
Cost Of Transportation In The Philippines Summary and Table of expenses

The average cost a traveler spends a day on transportation while in the Philippines is $1 to $5 a day USD.
The good news is that there are a few options available to you to reduce the cost of transportation. One option is to use public transportation or rent your own scooter. This is a great way to save money as you don’t have to pay for tolls or parking.
Here are a few different methods of Philippines public transport you can do in the :
- P2P Buses (Uber express & Genesis Transport)
- coupon taxis
- airport metered taxis
- railway (MRT & LRT)
- jeepneys
- Grab taxi
- Local Motorcycle Taxi
Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Public Transportation in The Philippines per month:
Method of Transportation | Per fare(USD) | Per Fare- Philippine peso (Php) |
---|---|---|
Jeepneys | $0.25 | 7 pesos |
Regular Taxis | $0.68 | 40 pesos |
Airport metered taxis | $1.65+$0.20 every 300 meters | 70 pesos + 4 pesos every 300 meters |
Coupon Taxis (no taxi meter) | Flat rate depending on destination | Flat rate |
Pedicab (2 passengers) | $0.17-$1.00 | 10-30 pesos |
Trike | $0.17(to start)-$0.68 | 7.50-40 pesos |
Manila’s LRT & MRT Railway Systems | 0.25-0.50 | 15-29 pesos |
Manila Buses | $0.20 and $1 | 12-59 pesos |
Point-to-point (P2P) buses | US$1.50 to US$3.50 | 300 PHP |
Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly transportation costs in the Philippines:
Monthly Cost Of Gas and Petrol For Scooter in the Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso |
---|---|---|
Average monthly cost for gasoline, Petrol for scooter | $18 | PHP 1,000 |
For taxis, you’re looking at a fixed start fee of 40 pesos and an additional 2.5 pesos($1.00 USD) for every 300 meters after that. Tipping is up to you!
- You can also get cabs through the Grab Taxi app on your phone.
- You are probably wondering how the coupon taxis work and how the rate is determined.
- It’s as simple as this: the dispatcher in the area will give you a rate depending on your final destination, and you will be given a coupon which you will hand to your driver after you pay your fee.
- Best for large families and foreigners to the country because you can request large van taxis if you have a lot of luggage to carry.
- For trikes (also known as tricycles), the drivers can drive pretty wild so keep that in mind before deciding to go on here.
- Based on the information in the table above, Manila’s buses, jeepneys, and railway system are your best means of traveling around for cheap.
- Regarding the trains, remember to avoid rush hour, which is from 7-9 am and 5-9 pm on weekdays.
- The buses are a comfortable ride whether you get an airconditioned or non air-conditioned bus but be prepared to hit a lot of traffic on the way to your destination.
- Additionally, renting a scooter can be a good option if you visit multiple places in the Philippines. Still, you must be 18 years or older and have a valid international driver’s license.
- Ultimately we recommend that you rent a scooter. This will give you the best experience, and you can explore the Philippines the best this way.
Cost Of Food In The Philippines Explained: Table Of Expenses

The average cost of food per day in the Philippines is about $5 to $10 per day. Lunch and dinner tend to be more expensive than breakfast, so if you’re eating out, expect to spend around $4.21 (240 pesos) if you decide to dine out.
Another great option is to shop at the local markets for affordable fresh food and cook your meals at home.
But if you eat at local food stalls around your area, eat lots of eggs, and rice, and drink lots of water every day, you’re looking to spend only around $250 on food per Month.
Filipino cuisine relies heavily on vegetables and seafood, so you’ll always be able to find something new to eat. We recommend mostly eating at the local markets. It is the best value for food and money and is incredibly cheap.
The food in the Philippines is as affordable as it is delicious. Rice is a staple crop, and Filipinos are great cooks.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal, head to a local market and try out different varieties of rice, as it can be cooked in many different ways.
You won’t be disappointed!
Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Food in The Philippines per month:
Average Monthly Food Costs in The Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Local Food Markets, Street food and Local Supermarkets and cheaper dining options Per month (Budget Food Costs) in The Philippines | $200 – $700 | PHP 11,000 – PHP 38,500 |
Eating out at Mid range restaurants and expensive restaurants per month (No Budget) In The Philippines | $600 – $1000 + | PHP 33,200 – PHP 55,000 |
Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly food and grocery costs in the Philippines:
Monthly Food Expenses in The Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso PHP |
---|---|---|
Average monthly cost for groceries In The Philippines | $108 | PHP 6,000 |
Average monthly cost for dining out In The Philippines | $36 | PHP 2,000 |
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous food items In The Philippines | $18 | PHP 1,000 |
Total average monthly cost for food In The Philippines | $162 | PHP 9,000 |
Cost of utilities in the Philippines: Table of Expenses:
Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly utilities in the Philippines:
Monthly Utilities Costs in the Philippines | USD $ | Philippine Peso |
---|---|---|
Average monthly cost for electricity in the Philippines | $18 | PHP 1,000 |
Average monthly cost for water in the Philippines | $9 | PHP 500 |
Average monthly cost for gas in the Philippines | $5 | PHP 300 |
Average monthly cost for internet in the Philippines | $18 | PHP 1,000 |
Total average monthly cost for utilities in the Philippines | $54 | PHP 3,000 |
5 Best Ways To Save Money On Food In The Philippines
Here are 5 best tips to help you out:
- Buy groceries in bulk or check out discount stores – these stores often have lower prices than regular stores.
- Eat out less often – cook your meals or eat at local food stalls cheaper than dining at restaurants.
- Compare prices between different storefronts before making any purchases.
- Plan your meals and buy ingredients you can use multiple times.
- Go in with an organized shopping list, and only shop when you’re hungry!
Top 5 Hotels in The Philippines:
Here are the Top 5 Hotels you should visit when you arrive in the Philippines:
- Marco Polo Ortigas Manila
- Conrad Manila
- Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay
- South Palms Resort Panglao
- Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort
and below is the latest deals on the best hotels and resorts in Boracay, Philippines!
Booking.comHealthcare Costs in the Philippines
Medical Tourism is massive in The Philippines. You can get the same care in The Philippines, as you would back in the United States at 1/10th of the price back home. Many hospitals and clinics throughout The Philippines provide high-quality care at reasonable prices. With many doctors that studied in the USA, UK, and Australia. I recommend researching the best hospitals for expats in The Philippines.
We recommend The best travel health Insurance available by SafetyWing We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. It covers any health or medical procedure done.
We suggest you also have it, especially if you live as an expat and digital nomad in The Philippines. We always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. They start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable!
Cost of Taxes in The Philippines by Percentage
Here is in-depth information on the cost of Taxes in the Philippines for each type of Tax and make sure to contact a local tax expert in the Philippines for more information:
Individual Income Tax in the Philippines
- Tax Type: Individual Income Tax
- Tax Rate: 0% – 35%
- Important Information:
- The Philippines has graduated tax rates from 0% to 35% based on taxable income.
- Taxable income over ₱250,000 is taxed at 32% up to 35% for income over ₱8 million.
- There are personal and additional exemptions that reduce taxable income.
Value Added Tax (VAT) in the Philippines
- Tax Type: Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Tax Rate: 12%
- Important Information:
- VAT of 12% applies to sale of goods and services and importation.
- Essential food, health, and education are zero-rated or exempt.
- VAT is collected by businesses and passed on to the government.
Corporate Income Tax in the Philippines
- Tax Type: Corporate Income Tax
- Tax Rate: 25% – 30%
- Important Information:
- Corporate income tax rate is 25% for small businesses and 30% for large corporations.
- Optional 15% tax rate for proprietary educational institutions.
- Tax incentives reduce corporate tax for certain industries and zones.
Property Tax in the Philippines
- Tax Type: Property Tax
- Tax Rate: 0.5% – 2%
- Important Information:
- Local government units levy real property tax up to 2% based on assessed value.
- Tax rates vary based on location and classification of property.
- Exemptions for low-income owner-occupied residences.
Customs Duties in the Philippines
- Tax Type: Customs Duties
- Tax Rate: 3% – 30%
- Important Information:
- Customs duties from 3% to 30% apply on importation of goods.
- Higher duties for cars, tobacco, and petroleum products.
- FTAs like ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement reduce duties.
Table of Tax Rates in the Philippines
Tax Type in The Philippines | Tax Rate in The Philippines |
---|---|
Individual Income Tax | 0% – 35% |
Value Added Tax (VAT) | 12% |
Corporate Income Tax | 25% – 30% |
Property Tax | 0.5% – 2% |
Customs Duties | 3% – 30% |
How to live cheap in the Philippines
When it comes to living cheap in the Philippines, there are a few simple tips to keep in mind:
- Eat locally, and get a meal for around ($2)USD or less.
- Public transportation is cheap, so don’t bother renting or buying a car.
- Consider staying in a one-bedroom apartment in Baguio or Davao city for only $300 a month, or search locally or on Airbnb for better deals.
- Pick an excellent location to live with nearby accommodations so you can spend less on transportation.
How to save money while living in the Philippines?
There are various ways to save money in the Philippines, including reducing food expenses, lowering utility bills, and cutting back on travel expenses.
Here are some simple tips anyone (including YOU) can follow!
- Create a financial plan for yourself or for you and your partner
- The budget for food costs (cook at home more than eating out or find a local restaurant to eat at often)
- Cut down on transportation costs (take the bus instead of taxis, or rent a scooter)
- Say NO to unnecessary expenses.
- Skip out on Starbucks and drink flavored water instead!
- Stay away from the touristic food and tourist spots.
Lastly, remember that communication is critical – keep your partner or family informed about your spending habits so they can help out as needed.
Main FAQS Section About The Cost of living in The Philippines:
What is the best time of year to visit the Philippines?
When planning your trip to the Philippines, remember that there are two distinct seasons – dry and wet. The best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when the islands and remote areas are at their most beautiful. Throughout the year however, you can expect a tropical climate with a rainy season from May to October.
What are the average costs of living in the Philippines in 2023?
The average cost of living in the Philippines will be around Php 57,000 per Month or $1000 per month in 2023. This includes rent, utilities, food, and transportation expenses. Some of the most affordable places to live in 2023 are Manila (Php 36K), Cebu City (Php 41K), Davao City (Php 43K), and General Santos City (Php 46K).
How much should I budget each month to live comfortably in the Philippines?
To live comfortably in the Philippines, you’ll need to budget at least 45,000 pesos (US$1,000) each Month. This figure will vary depending on where you live in the Philippines, as prices will differ in different areas. Also, always remember to budget for transportation costs, utilities (water, electricity), food expenses (groceries and restaurants), and other miscellaneous bills such as rent or mortgage payments. Once you have a rough estimate of your monthly expenses, start adding how much money you’ll need every Month to reach your goal.
What are the average prices for food and housing in the Philippines during 2023?
The average price of food per month will be around $300. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment will cost around $200 to $500 per month.
What is the monthly cost of living in The Philippines?
The cost of living in The Philippines, on average, is around $600 – $2000 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other costs like utilities and phone bills.
What is the Cost of Accommodation in The Philippines?
The Cost of Accommodation in The Philippines costs around $200 to $600 per month.
Is The Philippines a safe country to travel to?
Regarding safety, The Philippines is one of the safest countries in the world and it also has its ups and downs like anywhere in the world, but as long as you stay safe and take the same precautions as you would in your home country, the same applies here.
How Much does it cost to live in The Philippines?
On average, living in The Philippines costs around $600 to $2000 per month.
What is the Cost of Utilities in The Philippines?
The Utilities in The Philippines Cost around $30 to $100 per month, depending on your energy consumption!
What is the Cost Of Living in The Philippines Vs the USA?
The Cost Of Living in The Philippines is around 81% less than living in the USA, and the average monthly Cost of living in The Philippines is $600 to $1500 per month in The Philippines vs $5500 to $8000 per month living in New York City, United States.
What is the Cost of Food in The Philippines vs the USA?
The Cost Of Food in The Philippines is 70% less than in the United States. Monthly Food Costs in The Philippines is from $200 to $600 per month.
What is the Cost Of Rent in The Philippines VS USA?
The Cost of Rent in The Philippines is 81% less Than in the United States A 1 bedroom apartment costs $140 to $550 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2300 per month.
What is the Cost Of Accommodation in The Philippines vs the USA?
The Cost of Accommodation in The Philippines is 81.2% less Than in the United States; a studio bedroom apartment costs $150 to $550 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2300 per month.
What is the Cost of Transportation in The Philippines vs the USA?
The Cost of Transportation in The Philippines is 80% less than in The USA; monthly Transportation Costs in The Philippines Costs from $50 to $200 per Month.
What is the Food Expenses In The Philippines?
The Food expenses in The Philippines is from $200 to $600 per month. Make sure to eat the local Food to save more money!
What is the Rental Expenses In The Philippines?
The monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in The Philippines is from $140 to $600.
What is the Expenses for a Single Person in The Philippines?
The Expenses for a Single Person in The Philippines is from $600 to $1500 per month all expenses.
What is the average cost of Rent In The Philippines?
The Average cost of rent in The Philippines is around $140 to $600 Per Month in The Philippines.
What is the average Cost of Transportation In The Philippines?
The average cost of transportation in The Philippines is about $2 USD per day or $50 to $200 per month.
What is the Cost of Mobile Phone SIM and Internet Data In The Philippines?
The Cost of Phone Data and internet is around $15 to $40 per month
What is the Cost of Food in The Philippines?
The Cost of Food in The Philippines costs around $200 to $600 per month; try to eat at the local restaurants and street food for the best and cheapest food to stay on budget!
Is The Philippines a cheap country to live in?
The Philippines’s cost of living is approximately 81% less than the USA. The Philippines is Extremely cheap and affordable to live in.
Is The Philippines a good place to live?
Yes, The Philippines is a great and safe place to Live and one of the safest countries in the world! However, take the same precautions as you would in your home country.
What is the average salary in The Philippines?
The Average Monthly Salary in The Philippines is 27,670 PHP equals $500 United States Dollars.
What is a good salary to live in The Philippines?
A great Salary to live on in The Philippines is around $2000 per month.
Cost Of Living in The Philippines Conclusion
We hope that you have found this blog post helpful! We have summarized the cost of living in The Philippines and provided a table of expenses, provided information on rent, accommodation, food costs, and more! We will be continually updating this blog post! Also, below are many excellent travel resources that will help you in your Journey around the world!
- Also if you want to read the full guide on The Cost Of Living In Manila Philippines Click Here!
- Read here for the Cost of living in Cebu Philippines full Guide Click Here!
- Read the full Cost of living in Boracay Island Philippines Click Here!
- Curious about The Cost of Living in El Nido Palawan Philippines CLICK HERE!
- Read here for the Cost of living in Coron Palawan Philippines HERE!
- Read here for the full guide on the Cost of living in Siargao Philippines Here!
- Read the Full guide on The Cost of Living in Bohol Philippines Here!
- Read the Full guide on The Cost Of living in Davao City Philippines Here!
Travel Resources and Reliable Sources For Philippines
- Travel Insurance: We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. We STRONGLY suggest that you also have it, just in case other digital nomads live abroad, and we always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. SafetyWing is one of the few policies covering Covid-19, and they start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable! SafetyWing is perfect for Digital Nomads and long-term travelers!
- Heath and Safety: We use the travel guides on the CDC website to research recommended precautions.
- Philippines Tourism Board Government Site
- Official Philippines Tourism Board Tourist Friendly Site
If you want to keep up with our travels, go ahead and follow us on our travel page on Instagram @onelifepassport! Comment below what else you would like to know/see about our experiences traveling the world! Also, check out our YouTube Channel!
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Social Media:
Kristopher Foreman
Saturday 3rd of June 2023
My personal experience is that if you have a retirement of 2500, and you own your house and car already free and clear, you can live quite comfortably. My wife lives in Isabela province and we built a house for 30,000 USD. Our expenses run 100 USD for electricity for 2 house combined. 40 USD for water. 25 USD for high speed internet. 10 USD for Netflix. Propane is 50 USD. 3 bags of rice 70 USD. 800 USD Groceries at Robinsons. 200 USD gas for the car, the motorcycles hardly use any gas. For a grand total of $1295 a month in expenses. That leaves $1205 for traveling, eating out, etc. These are my actual expenses as of 6/3/2023 for taking care of my family in the Philippines. I live in Boulder Colorado USA and work for the U.S. Government
Austin Pierce
Saturday 3rd of June 2023
Incredible thanks for commenting! great to also hear from others experiences, Philippines is definitely an amazing place to live for cheap in such a beautiful country, We personally spent around $800 - $1200 depending on the month as well.